| |
Trichotillomania patients are more likely to be women while OCD has a more even gender distribution; the relationship of trichotillomania to OCD is not fully understood and currently they are thought to be related but distinct disorders. Most people with the condition experience anxiety, embarrassment and diminished self-confidence and self-esteem. Some avoid treatment for medical or dental problems because of concern that their hair pulling will be discovered. However, when the behavior stops, hair occasionally grows back gray or white and it may be finer, coarser or curlier.
The trauma of hair pulling also increases the risk for scalp infection. Sometimes a physician can feel a trichobezoar by gently pushing in the mid or left upper area of a patient's abdomen. Surgical removal is the most common treatment.
|
|
|
